Curriculum P-6

It may not be everyone’s idea of a fun Saturday, but last weekend I had the pleasure of spending the day at the Maths Association of NSW’s annual conference in Sydney. Sessions ranged from experts discussing how to create Maths lessons that use ‘horizon’ thinking, where students are encouraged to stretch their thinking and make connections, the wonderful way picture books can be used to teach mathematical concepts, and how to help students who might be experiencing anxiety around Mathematics.

An exciting session was run by Dr Bronwyn Reid-O’Connor from the University of Sydney, where she spoke with passion about the crucial role of times tables knowledge in a child’s mathematical development. She defines multiplication facts as the basic arithmetic combinations of numbers, emphasising their importance as fundamental building blocks for more advanced mathematical concepts. A strong grasp of multiplication facts lays the foundation for efficient and confident problem-solving in Mathematics, enabling children to tackle more complex calculations with ease.

In the NSW Mathematics syllabus, students begin their schooling with being taught to recognise equal groups and patterns. Multiplication is understood as repeated addition and students develop basic strategies for solving simple problems. As students progress, they build upon their understanding of multiplication and refine strategies for solving multiplication and division problems using arrays, equal groups and skip counting. They learn to apply these strategies to solve real-world problems and develop fluency in basic multiplication facts, beginning with recalling multiplication and related division facts of 2 and 4, 5 and 10, and progressing to generating and recalling multiplication fact families up to 10 x 10 by the end of Year 4.

How can parents and carers help children with this important area of Mathematics? Dr. Reid-O’Connor’s research highlights the significance of incorporating visual aids and mnemonics into times tables learning. Visual tools such as multiplication charts, number lines, or arrays to help children visualise the relationship between numbers and grasp multiplication concepts more effectively. Mnemonic devices, such as rhymes, songs, or memory tricks, can also aid in memorisation by providing children with memorable cues to recall multiplication facts, as can the use of technology through sites such as www.timestables.com. Digital resources can provide children with additional practice opportunities and a different perspective on times tables learning.

Dr. Reid-O’Connor also suggested specific games and activities to reinforce multiplication facts in an engaging and enjoyable manner. One game is “Multiplication Heads Up” where pairs use playing cards to calculate multiplication facts. Another great activity to do at home is print some multiplication grids and explore patterns with your child. While travelling in the car, encourage your child to look at number plates and combine numbers to generate times tables facts. Shopping is another ideal time to encourage multiplicative thinking, such as calculating the total cost of items when buying multiples of the same product or determining discounts based on percentages.

Consistency and patience are key when helping students learn times tables. It’s essential to set aside regular time for practice and review, allowing them to gradually absorb and retain multiplication facts. Praise and positive reinforcement can also boost children’s confidence and motivation as they progress in their times tables journey. By creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment, teachers, parents and carers can work together to empower children to master this fundamental skill and build a strong mathematical foundation for future learning.

For those seeking further ideas about how to support your child on their Mathematical Journey, click here and scroll down to ‘Supporting Your Child: Parent and Carer Guide’ for advice from the NSW Education Standards Authority.

Warm regards

Mrs Alison Rasheed
Director of Curriculum P-6